Aircraft parachute system utilizing airbag to assist with parachute deployment

ABSTRACT

An aircraft includes an airframe parachute system. The parachute system includes an activation system, an extraction system, a harness system, and a parachute assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

1. Priority Applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/294,399, filed Feb. 12, 2016, and entitled AIRCRAFTPARACHUTE SYSTEM, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein.

2. Contemporaneously Filed Applications

The present application is filed contemporaneously with U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. ______, entitled MECHANICAL TIMING CONNECTION FORSEQUENCING AIRBAG ACTIVATION WITH ROCKET FOR DEPLOYING AIRCRAFTPARACHUTE, filed Feb. 13, 2017; U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______,entitled BRIDLE FOR AIRCRAFT PARACHUTE DEPLOYMENT ROCKET, filed Feb. 13,2017; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled AIRCRAFTPARACHUTE DEPLOYMENT AUTOPILOT, filed Feb. 13, 2017. The entiredisclosure of each of the aforementioned contemporaneously filedapplications is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to aircraft. More particularly,a preferred embodiment of the present invention concerns an aircraftincluding a parachute system.

2. Discussion of the Prior Art

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that parachutesystems may be provided to slow the travel of a body. For instance,bodies such as spacecraft or skydivers falling toward the earth due tothe influence of gravity might be provided with one or more parachutesystems to slow their descent. In other cases, bodies such as automotivedrag racing vehicles or naval jet airplanes might be provided with oneof more parachute systems to slow their generally horizontal travelwhile in contact with the ground (e.g., a racetrack or aircraft carrierdeck, respectively).

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the invention, an aircraft is provided. Theaircraft includes a fuselage, a parachute assembly, and an extractionsystem. The fuselage defines a recess. The parachute assembly includes acanopy shiftable from a first canopy position at least substantiallywithin the recess to a second canopy position completely outside therecess. The extraction system includes an ejector assembly and aprojectile object. The ejector assembly includes an inflatable cushionand an inflator configured to inflate the inflatable cushion. Inflationof the inflatable cushion pushes the canopy away from the recess. Theprojectile object is connected to the parachute assembly and isconfigured to pull the canopy away from the recess.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in detail belowwith regard to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an aircraft according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the aircraft of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, fragmented top perspective view of the aircraftof FIGS. 1 and 2, particularly illustrating the parachute assembly,activation handle and igniter switch assembly, and controller;

FIG. 3a is an enlarged perspective view of the activation handle andigniter switch assembly;

FIG. 3b is an enlarged perspective view of the controller;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the parachute system withinthe nose of the aircraft, prior to deployment;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the parachute system with portionsof the fairings shown, and with surrounding structure removed forclarity;

FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the parachute system similar toFIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a front view of the parachute system;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the parachute system;

FIG. 9 is a top, front perspective view of the parachute system;

FIG. 10 is an alternative top, front perspective view of the parachutesystem;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged front perspective view of a portion of theparachute system, particularly illustrating components of the extractionsystem;

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the parachute system, particularlyillustrating portions of the harness system;

FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the parachute system,particularly illustrating portions of the extraction system;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged front perspective view of a portion of theparachute system, particularly illustrating components of the extractionsystem;

FIG. 15 is an alternative view of the components of the extractionsystem shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged front perspective view of a portion of theparachute system, particularly illustrating components of the extractionsystem;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged, partially fragmented and exploded viewparticularly illustrating the sequencer and activation tang;

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of the activation harness;

FIG. 19 is a partially exploded top perspective view of the parachuteassembly, load plate, and inflatable cushion;

FIG. 20 is a partially exploded bottom perspective view of the parachuteassembly, load plate, and inflatable cushion;

FIG. 21 is a detailed view of the snub line mechanism;

FIG. 22 is a detailed, partially exploded view of the snub linemechanism;

FIG. 23 is a partially exploded top perspective view of the rocketassembly;

FIG. 24 is a partially exploded bottom perspective view of the rocketassembly;

FIG. 25 is a detailed view of a rear harness attachment from an externalviewpoint;

FIG. 26 is a detailed view of a rear harness attachment from an internalviewpoint;

FIG. 27 is a detailed view of the rocket bridle;

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft during a firststage of deployment of the parachute assembly, illustrating the rocketshortly after launch and the nose bay cover removed from the remainderof the aircraft body;

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft in a secondstage of deployment of the parachute assembly, illustrating the rocketin the activation position (with exaggerated spacing of the just-removedtang from the sequencer for clarity);

FIG. 30 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft in a thirdstage of deployment of the parachute assembly, with the releasemechanism activation and initial pickup of the boot and rocket bridlebeing shown;

FIG. 31 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft in a fourthstage of deployment of the parachute assembly, particularly showinginitial engagement of the deployment bag straps and early tear-out ofthe activation harness, as well as progressing inflation of the cushion;

FIG. 32 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft in a fifthstage of deployment of the parachute assembly, illustrating continuedrocket travel, continued inflation of the cushion, and continuedtear-out of the activation harness, and further including fragmentationto expose the deployment bag straps and rocket bridle within the sheath;

FIG. 33 is a fragmentary perspective view of the aircraft in a sixthstage of deployment of the parachute assembly, particularly illustratingcompletion of the cushion stroke, completion of the activationincremental tear-out, and early tear-out of the rocket bridle;

FIG. 34 is a fragmentary side perspective view of the aircraft in aseventh stage of deployment of the parachute assembly, particularlyillustrating early harness payout, reorientation of the deployment bag,and continued rocket travel;

FIG. 35 is a fragmentary side perspective view of the aircraft in aneighth stage of deployment of the parachute assembly, particularlyillustrating the rocket having removed the deployment bag and releasedthe canopy, riser, suspension, and snub line mechanism;

FIG. 36 is a side perspective view of the aircraft in a ninth stage ofdeployment of the parachute assembly, particularly illustratinginflation of the canopy;

FIG. 37 is a side perspective view of the aircraft in a tenth stage ofdeployment of the parachute assembly, particularly illustrating a fullyinflated canopy and released or expanded snub line;

FIG. 38 is a detailed, partially fragmented view of the expanded snubline mechanism as shown in FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a diagram particularly illustrating the deployment managementsystem;

and

FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating operation of the parachute system,including the deployment management system.

The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specificembodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearlyillustrating the principles of the preferred embodiments.

Furthermore, directional references (e.g., top, bottom, front, back,side, etc.) are used herein solely for the sake of convenience andshould be understood only in relation to each other. For instance, acomponent might in practice be oriented such that faces referred to as“top” and “bottom” are sideways, angled, inverted, etc. relative to thechosen frame of reference.

It is also noted that, as used herein and unless otherwise specified,the terms axial, axially, and variations thereof mean the definedelement has at least some directional component along or parallel to theaxis. These terms should not be limited to mean that the element extendsonly or purely along or parallel to the axis. For example, the elementmay be oriented at a forty-five degree (45) angle relative to the axisbut, because the element extends at least in part along the axis, itshould still be considered axial. Similarly, the terms radial, radially,and variations thereof shall be interpreted to mean the element has atleast some directional component in the radial direction relative to theaxis, unless otherwise specified.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Aircraft Overview

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aircraft 10 isprovided. The aircraft 10 is preferably an airplane. The aircraft 10preferably broadly comprises a body 12 and a propulsion unit 14 forpropelling the body 12. The body 12 preferably includes a fuselage 16defining a cabin 18, a pair of wings 20 extending from the fuselage 16,a pair of upper stabilizers 22 extending from the fuselage 16 (i.e., aV-tail or butterfly tail), and a pair of lower stabilizers 24 extendingfrom the fuselage 16. The propulsion unit 14 is preferably mounted tothe fuselage 16. The wings 20 are preferably fixed wings, and thepropulsion unit 14 preferably comprises a jet engine.

The body 12 preferably presents a nose 12 a and a tail 12 b opposite thenose 12 a.

Each wing 20 preferably includes a roll control surface 26 actuatable bya roll control actuator 26 a. The roll control surface 26 is preferablyan aileron. Each upper stabilizer preferably includes a pitch controlsurface 28 actuatable by a pitch control actuator 28 a. The pitchcontrol surface 28 is preferably a combination surface combining theconventional functions of both an elevator and a rudder. Suchcombination surface may be referred to as a ruddervator. As will bediscussed in greater detail below, however, a variety of aircraftconfigurations are permissible without departing from the scope of someaspects of the present invention.

The aircraft 10 is preferably a civilian airplane for business orprivate use. Still more particularly, the aircraft 10 is preferably amulti-seat light aircraft approved for single-pilot operation. In apreferred embodiment, as illustrated, the aircraft 10 is a multi-seatpersonal jet with a pilot plus passenger capacity up to seven. Inalternative terms, the aircraft 10 may also referred to as a very lightjet, entry-level jet, or microjet.

It is permissible according to some aspects of the present invention,however, for the aircraft to be an entirely different type of airplaneor to be of an alternative aircraft type entirely. For instance, theaircraft might be manned or unmanned (e.g., a drone or unmanned aerialvehicle).

The aircraft might be a rotorcraft such as a helicopter, a fixed wingaircraft, or an ornithopter. Onboard power might be provided by one ormore jet engines (e.g., turbojets, turbofans, pulse jets, ram jets,and/or hybrids thereof), propellers, and/or rockets. The aircraft mightalso be devoid of onboard propulsion power (e.g., a glider orsatellite). The aircraft might be a personal aircraft (e.g., arecreational ultralight), a small business aircraft (e.g., a cropduster), a large commercial aircraft (e.g., an international passengerjet), or a military aircraft (e.g., a fighter jet). As will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art, additional aircraft not listedabove may also fall within the scope of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the aircraft 10 weighsbetween about two thousand (2,000) lb and about five thousand (5,000) lbempty, with a maximum weight between about four thousand (4,000) lb andabout eight thousand (8,000) lb. Most preferably, the maximum aircraftweight is about six thousand (6,000) lb. The wingspan is preferablybetween about twenty (20) feet and about sixty (60) feet. The length ispreferably between about ten (10) feet and about fifty (50) feet. Theheight is preferably between about five (5) feet and about fifteen (15)feet. However, as noted above, a variety of aircraft types and, in turn,sizes, fall within the scope of some aspects of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the aircraft 10 includes anaircraft or airframe parachute system 30. The parachute system 30 willbe described in detail below. In a broad sense, however, the parachutesystem 30 preferably includes an activation system 32, an extractionsystem 34, a harness system 36, and a parachute assembly 38.

The parachute system 30 is preferably intentionally activated by a pilotor passenger. However, it is permissible according to some aspects ofthe present invention for activation to occur in a purposeful butautomated manner based on some condition of the aircraft (e.g.,automatically via a control system of an unmanned aircraft upondetection of rapid descent, etc.). Upon such intentional or purposefulactivation, the aircraft parachute system 30 is configured to slow thedescent of the aircraft 10, preferably resulting in a minimally damaginglanding both for the aircraft 10 itself and for the pilot, passenger(s),cargo, etc. as specific to the given incident. More particularly, aswill be discussed in detail below, it is preferred that the activationsystem 32, upon user input, initiates and monitors processes designed toplace the aircraft 10 into an appropriate state for deployment of theparachute assembly 38. Such deployment is by means of the extractionsystem 34, which ejects the parachute assembly 38 away from theremainder of the aircraft 10, and further by means of the harness system36, which both assists in control of the extraction process and securesthe parachute assembly 38 to the remainder of the aircraft 10.

Although a variety of suitable reasons for activation exist, those forwhich control of the aircraft 10 has been lost (or the aircraft 10 isotherwise endangered) due to environmental conditions, electronic ormechanical system failure, pilot error or incapacitation, etc. areparticularly contemplated. The present invention is not limited tospecific circumstances, however, unless otherwise specified. In a broadsense, however, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in theart that deployment of the parachute assembly 38 will be intended toprovide a force in opposition to a direction of travel of the aircraft(regardless of whether or not such direction of travel is substantiallydownward).

Parachute System: Activation System

In a preferred embodiment, the activation system 32 broadly includes adeployment handle 40, an activation cable 42, an igniter switch assembly44, and a deployment management system 46. The activation system 32 isconfigured to enable efficient activation of the parachute system 30while also avoiding inadvertent activations. That is, the activationsystem 32 is preferably simple enough to enable emergency use whilebeing both robust and well-protected against unintentional engagement.As noted above, the activation system 32 is also configured tofacilitate and implement operations to place the aircraft 10 in asuitable state for deployment of the parachute assembly 38.

Deployment Handle, Activation Cable, and Igniter Switch Assembly

In a preferred method of use, engagement of the activation system 32requires a user (preferably in the cabin 18) to (1) access and grip thedeployment handle 40 and (2) pull the handle 40 down with at least aboutfifteen (15) lb of force and more preferably at least about thirty (30)lb of force. Most preferably, the handle 40 must be pulled down with atleast about forty-five (45) lb of force. The handle 40 is preferablyattached to the activation cable 42, which in turn is operablyinterconnected with the igniter switch assembly 44, such that the methoddescribed above results in engagement of the igniter switch assembly 44.Further details of the interactions of the handle 40, the cable 42, andthe igniter switch assembly 44 are provided below.

Inadvertent engagement is preferably avoided by the aforementionedtwo-step nature of the activation method and the relatively high forcerequired to pull the handle 40 down. Inadvertent engagement is furtherpreferably avoided by definition of a recess (not shown), preferably ina ceiling of the cabin 18, in which the handle 40 is received. Accessand gripping of the handle 40 is thus further restricted (i.e., thehandle 40 does not simply hang down into the cabin 18), and pulling ofthe handle 40 requires an initial generally outward or horizontal motionto clear the recess prior to the aforementioned forceful downward pull.

Still further, in a preferred embodiment, a small mount of slack (e.g.,two (2) inches) is provided in the cable 42 such that the deploymenthandle 40 can be shifted or unseated from the recess a small amountwithout the cable 42 engaging the igniter switch assembly 44.

Preferably, a pin (not shown) is also provided to prevent extraction ofthe deployment handle 40 during maintenance and/or ground operations.

Although a recessed handle 40 with built-in cable 42 slack and aretention pin, as described above, is preferred, it will be understoodby those of ordinary skill in the art that it is permissible accordingto some aspects of the present invention for any of a variety ofactivation mechanisms, including but not limited to buttons, switches,alternative handles, voice activated systems, or mechanisms similar tothe above (but non-recessed, lacking slack, and/or devoid of safetypins), etc. to act singly or in combination to engage the activationsystem.

Turning again to the preferred, illustrated embodiment, the deploymenthandle 40 preferably comprises anodized aluminum in a T-shape tofacilitate easy gripping. Furthermore, the handle 40 is preferablypainted, powder-coated, or otherwise colored red for easyidentification. Other colors, materials, and/or shapes are permissible,however.

Preferably, the cable 42 comprises steel. Other materials may bealternatively or additionally used, however. For instance, the cable 42could comprise braided Kevlar® or another textile material.

In a preferred embodiment, the igniter switch assembly 44 includes amechanically activated single pole, single throw, normally open, doublemake (SPST-NO-DM) switch. Activation of the switch preferably requiresapplication of a sufficient force (preferably at least about thirty (30)lb) via the cable 42 to overcome an opposing force provided by aresistive element housed therein.

In a preferred embodiment, for instance, the force transferred via thecable 42 must be sufficient to compress a spring to allow the switch toclose. Any one or more of a variety of switch types known in the art maybe used without departing from the scope of some aspects of the presentinvention, however.

Deployment Management System

Upon engagement of the activation system 32 as described above, thedeployment management system 46 is engaged. In a preferred embodiment,the deployment management system 46 includes an autopilot component 48and a control box component 50. In various implementations, thefunctionalities of these components 48,50 may be performed by a singlesubsystem, or their performance may be distributed over two or moredifferent subsystems.

Broadly characterized, when the parachute system 30 is activated, as instep 52, the autopilot component 48 idles or shuts off the propulsionunit 14, as in step 54; levels the wings 20, as in step 56; and pitchesthe nose 12 a of the aircraft 10 up, as in step 58, to decelerate theaircraft 10 and position it in a desired orientation to facilitatedeployment of the parachute assembly 38.

Furthermore, the control box component 50 determines whether a speed ofthe aircraft 10 is at or below a maximum deployment speed, as in step60, and if not, whether the aircraft 10 is decelerating, as in step 62,and based thereon sends a deployment signal to the extraction system 34,as in step 63, to deploy the parachute assembly 38.

Further still, a pilot or other controller of the aircraft 10 mayperform various relevant functions, as in step 64, such as shutting offthe propulsion unit 16 and/or preparing the aircraft 10 for landing, tofacilitate the overall process.

It may be desirable to be at or below the maximum deployment speed toavoid imparting overly large loads on the occupants (if any) and thestructure of the aircraft 10 (e.g., the fuselage 16). Further, it may bedesirable to level the wings 20 and pitch the nose 12 a up in order toachieve a desirable orientation of and further slow the aircraft 10 tofacilitate more effective deployment of the parachute assembly 38.Avoidance of ingestion of the parachute assembly 38 into the propulsionunit 14 is also desirable, with both idling/shut-off procedures andorientation of the aircraft 10 potentially aiding in achieving thisgoal.

Autopilot Component

Embodiments of the autopilot component 48 may function substantially asfollows. In aircraft with an existing autopilot system 66 (e.g.,higher-end aircraft and unmanned drones), such as the preferred,illustrated aircraft 10, this component 48 may be configured to workthrough the existing autopilot system 66 to accomplish its function. Inaircraft (e.g., lower-end manned aircraft and unmanned drones) withoutan existing autopilot system, this component 48 may work directly withvarious actuators and control surfaces to accomplish its function.

When the handle 40 is pulled, the deployment management system 46receives an Activation Signal. Receipt of the Activation Signal maycause the autopilot component 48 to send a Speed Control Signal to apropulsion unit speed controller 68 to idle the propulsion unit 16 orotherwise reduce the speed of the aircraft 10. Again, if the aircraft 10has an existing autopilot system 66, then the autopilot component 48 maywork through the existing autopilot system 66 to cause the Speed ControlSignal to be sent to the speed controller 68.

Additionally, the autopilot component 48 may send a Roll Control Signalto the roll control actuator 26 a to cause the roll control surface 26to level the wings 20 or, in an aircraft without wings, otherwise reducethe roll angle below a maximum roll angle threshold. Again, if theaircraft 10 has an existing autopilot system 66, then the autopilotcomponent 48 may work through the existing autopilot system 66 to causethe Roll Control Signal to be sent to the roll control actuator 26 a.

In one implementation, the maximum roll angle may be +/−five (5)degrees, and the desired roll angle may be zero (0) degrees.Furthermore, the roll control function to achieve this roll angle may beperformed at the highest gain (same as Level Mode).

Additionally, the autopilot component 48 may send a Pitch Control Signalto the pitch control actuator 28 a to cause the pitch control surface 28to pitch up or otherwise cause the pitch angle to be between a minimumpitch angle and a maximum pitch angle. Again, if the aircraft 10 has anexisting autopilot system 66, then the autopilot component 48 may workthrough the existing autopilot system 66 to cause the Pitch ControlSignal to be sent to the pitch control actuator 28 a. In oneimplementation, the minimum pitch angle may be up twenty-five (25)degrees and the maximum pitch angle may be up thirty-five (35) degrees.The desired pitch angle may be up thirty (30) degrees. The pitch controlfunction to achieve this pitch angle may be performed at the highestgain.

The speed, roll, and/or pitch control actions by the autopilot component48 may be performed substantially simultaneously. Some or all of thefunctionality of the autopilot component 48 may be implemented insoftware executed on a microprocessor, in firmware, or in hardware, orin a combination thereof.

Furthermore, it is permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention for the autopilot component 48 to signal only one of thecontrollers or actuators 68,26 a,28 a listed above, or any combinationthereof, or to additionally or alternatively signal any other availablecontrollers or actuators (e.g, those associated with landing gear,flaps, speed brakes, spoilers, etc.) in order to slow the aircraft 10.

In one implementation, the autopilot component 48 may remain active forthirty (30) seconds before self-clearing, and may be interrupted bypressing and holding a switch, such as an “AP DISC” (autopilotdisconnect) switch provided in the cabin 18.

Control Box Component

Embodiments of the control box component 50 may function substantiallyas follows. When the handle 40 is pulled, the deployment managementsystem 46 receives the Activation Signal. Receipt of the ActivationSignal may cause the control box component 50 to determine the speed ofthe aircraft 10 using a speed sensor 70, and based thereon, determinewhether the speed of the aircraft 10 is at or below a maximum deploymentspeed for deploying the parachute assembly 38, and if so, send a DeploySignal and/or apply power to the extraction system 34 (via the igniterswitch assembly 44) to deploy the parachute assembly 38.

In one implementation, the maximum deployment speed may be one hundredthirty-five (135) Knots Calibrated Air Speed (KCAS) and one hundredforty-five (145) Knots True Air Speed KTAS.

In an exemplary implementation, the control box component 50 may includetwo channels: a first channel, which may always be active, including anairspeed switch circuit 72; and a second channel, which may activatewhen the handle 40 is pulled, including a time-out circuit 74. Both thefirst and second channels may be connected to independent pilot andstatic pressure sources (which may be the same sources as ADC1 andADC2).

The airspeed switch circuit 72 may use a first differential pressuresensor 76 and a first absolute pressure sensor 78 to sense pressurerelated to the speed of the aircraft 10, and a pair of comparators 80,82to determine whether the aircraft 10 is at or below the maximumdeployment speed. When the aircraft 10 is above the maximum deploymentspeed, the Deploy Signal may not be sent and/or power may be removedfrom the igniter switch assembly 44. When the aircraft 10 is at or belowthe maximum deployment speed, the Deploy Signal may be sent and/or powermay be applied to the igniter switch assembly 44. The airspeed switchcircuit 72 may be monitored for accuracy by the existing avionics of theaircraft 10.

The time-out circuit 74 may use a second differential pressure sensor84, a second absolute pressure sensor 86, and a timer 88 to monitor fordeceleration during the first few seconds (e.g., between five (5)seconds and ten (10) seconds, or most preferably eight (8) seconds)after the parachute system 30 has been activated. As in step 90, ifdeceleration is detected, the timer 88 may be reset to allow theaircraft 10 to continue to slow to at or below the maximum deploymentspeed. If deceleration is not detected, it may be indicative of a systemor aircraft malfunction and the parachute assembly 38 may be deployedregardless of the speed of the aircraft 10. As in step 92, even if theaircraft 10 is decelerating, at between twenty (20) and forty (40)seconds, or most preferably at thirty-two (32) seconds, afteractivation, the Deploy Signal may be sent and/or power may be applied tothe extraction system 34 regardless of the speed of the aircraft 10.

In one implementation, the control box component 50 may be an air datameasuring circuit mounted in an aft avionic bay of the aircraft 10. Someor all of the functionality of the control box component 50 may beimplemented in software executed on a microprocessor, in firmware, or inhardware, or in a combination thereof.

The control box component 50 may include a backup timer 94 configured toensure deployment in the event of an airspeed activation system failure.

Parachute System: Extraction System

As noted previously, the extraction system 34 is broadly configured toeject the parachute assembly 38 away from the remainder of the aircraft10 (i.e., away from the aircraft body 12).

In a preferred embodiment, the fuselage 16 of the aircraft 10 defines afore or front end 16 a and an aft or rear end 16 b. The nose 12 a of theaircraft 10 is disposed at the fore end 16 a, while the tail 12 b of theaircraft 10 is disposed at the aft end 16 b. The nose 12 a defines arecess or bay 96. The extraction system 34 is at least substantiallyhoused in the bay 96 prior to deployment. More particularly, in apreferred embodiment, the fuselage 16 includes a cover 98 that enclosesthe bay 96 and thereby contains the extraction system 34 within the bay96 prior to deployment. As will be discussed in greater detail below,portions of the extraction system 34 will also remain in the bay 96after deployment of the parachute assembly 38.

In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the extraction system 34includes an electronic sequencer 100, a projectile object assembly 102including a projectile object 104, an ejector bag assembly 106, and aload plate 108.

The sequencer 100 is preferably configured both to receive input fromthe control box 50 and to provide output to the projectile object 104.More particularly, upon the meeting of the deployment conditionselucidated above, the control box 50 sends a deployment signal that isreceived by the sequencer 100. The sequencer 100 then in turn signalsthe projectile object 104 to launch via provision of electrical powerthereto. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the sequencer 100also preferably communicates with the ejector bag assembly 106.

Preferably, to ensure inadvertent power is not provided to theprojectile object 104 (i.e., to ensure the projectile object 104 is notlaunched prior to the desired time as indicated by the control box 50),the sequencer 100 (and all other components housed in the bay 96) areelectrically isolated from the remainder of the aircraft 10 until theigniter switch assembly 44 is closed.

Projectile Object Assembly

The projectile object assembly 102 is preferably a rocket assembly 102,wherein the projectile object 104 is a rocket 104. However, it ispermissible according to some aspects of the present invention for theprojectile assembly and object to be of an alternative type. Forinstance, in contrast to a rocket, the projectile object might beprovided with an initial launch velocity but not include onboard power.

The rocket assembly 102 preferably includes a launch tube 110, therocket 104, a signal receiver 112 (e.g., a printed circuit board 114 andassociated components 116), a pick-up collar 118, and a sequencer cable(i.e., a rocket lanyard or cable) 120. The rocket 104 preferablypresents a body 122, a motor 124, and an ignition assembly 126.

As discussed in more detail above, launch is initiated upon receipt of asignal from the control box 50. The signal is preferably relayed to theignition assembly 126 by means of ignition wires 128 that transfer thesignal to the signal receiver 112, which in turn communicates with theignition assembly 126. The ignition assembly 126, upon receipt of thesignal, activates the rocket motor 124, resulting in launch of therocket 104 in a broad sense.

The rocket 104 is preferably disposed at least substantially within thelaunch tube 110 prior to launch. Preferably, the launch tube 110includes a generally cylindrical body 130 corresponding to the generallycylindrical rocket body 122, such that the launch tube 110 guides theinitial trajectory of the rocket 104.

Preferably, the deployment direction and general trajectory of therocket 104 are generally orthogonal to and away from the aircraft body12 as it is positioned at the time of rocket launch, after which timethe aircraft body 12 will continue on its own trajectory (likelyresulting in the rocket being positioned relatively rearward of theaircraft body 12). The trajectory of the rocket 104 is also preferablyboth generally straight and consistent or regular. However, it ispermissible according to some aspects of the present invention for thedirection to vary and for irregularities in the rocket path to bepresent. More particularly, the desired and actual directions of travelof the rocket will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the artto be dependent upon the particular application and associatedconditions. For instance, irregularities in the pyrotechnics orexplosives powering the motor will vary its trajectory, as willenvironmental conditions including wind. The speed of the aircraft in abroad sense will also influence the early stages of rocket deployment.Thus, a desired “generally straight” straight trajectory will likelyinclude at least some angular and/or curvilinear variations.

The rocket 104 is preferably an unguided rocket, although a guideddevice (e.g., one enabling greater control over the trajectory of therocket) is also permissible without departing from the scope of someaspects of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the pickup collar 118 includes a generallyannular ring 132 and a pair of brackets 134 extending generally axiallyfrom the ring 132. The sequencer cable 120 is routed through each of thebrackets 134 to present a pair of sequencer cable legs 136,138 havingrespective ends 136 a,138 a. The ring 132 is preferably sized andpositioned so as to circumscribe the rocket body 122.

Preferably, the rocket body 122 includes a lead end 122 a and a trailend 122 b. A radially outwardly extending flange 140 is preferablydisposed near the trail end 122 b. The pickup collar 118 is preferablyinitially disposed near the lead end 122 a.

The sequencer cable legs 136, 138 are preferably coiled for stowage andplaced in a coil stowage bag 141. (The cable legs 136 and 138 areremoved from the stowage bag 141 in the illustrated embodiment forclarity.)

In a preferred embodiment, the launch tube 110 aids in positioning bothof the pickup collar 118 and the signal receiver 112. More particularly,the launch tube 110 further preferably includes a bracket 142 comprisinga shelf component 144 and a pillar 146 extending upwardly from the shelfcomponent 144. The pickup collar 118 preferably rests on the shelfcomponent 144, while the pillar 146 and the ignition assembly 126 of therocket 104 cooperatively support the signal receiver 112. Alternativesupport schemes are permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention, however.

The rocket 104 is preferably a tractor rocket producing approximatelytwo hundred seventy (270) lbs average thrust. The rocket 104 preferablyburns for approximately one and seven tenths (1.7) seconds and has atotal impulse of approximately four hundred sixty (460) lb-sec.

Travel of the rocket 104 in the deployment direction is preferably atleast in part resisted by a rocket bridle 147 fixed to the rocket 104.The rocket bridle 147 will be discussed in greater detail below.

Ejector Bag Assembly

The ejector bag assembly 106 preferably includes an inflatable cushion148, a plurality of inflators 150 configured to inflate the cushion 148,and an inflator mount 152 positioning and supporting the inflators 150.

More particularly, in a preferred embodiment, the cushion 148 preferablycomprises a generally cylindrical fabric bag 154 compressed in such amanner, when the cushion 148 is in a deflated configuration, as to forma plurality of annular overlaid portions 156 (i.e., pleats or folds).Alternatively shaped and/or arranged cushions are permissible accordingto some aspects of the present invention, however.

The fabric is preferably a heat-resistant fabric and, more preferably,comprises aramid fibers. Most preferably, the fabric is Kevlar®,although one or more alternative or additional fabrics or otherflexible, generally gas-impermeable materials may be used withoutdeparting from the scope of some aspects of the present invention.

In addition to heat resistance, the fabric preferably provides goodproperties when subjected to operational pressures.

It is particularly noted that a flexible material of a non-fabric typemight also be used without departing the scope of some aspects of thepresent invention.

The cushion 148 further preferably comprises thread 158 forming aplurality of stitches 160 joining each set of overlaid portions 156.Preferably, the stitches 160 extend annularly through each set ofoverlaid portions 156, although alternative patterns are permissible.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, such stitches 160 mustthus be torn to enable unfolding of the overlaid portions 156 and of thecushion 148 in general, as required for inflation of the cushion 148. Itis permissible according to some aspects of the present invention,however, for the thread and stitches to be omitted.

The inflators 150 are preferably gas-generant inflators configured to,upon activation, generate and emit a gas (e.g, nitrogen) into thecushion 148. In a preferred embodiment, the inflators 150 each produce aone and eight tenths (1.8) molar output when one and seventy-fivehundredths (1.75) amps are applied for five tenths (0.5) milliseconds.However, alternative performance is permissible and should be tailoredto the particular application.

Preferably, three (3) inflators 150 a,b,c are provided, although more orfewer (including only one) may be provided without departing from thescope of some aspects of the present invention.

The inflator mount 152 preferably comprises a disk 162 defining aplurality of openings 164 for receiving the inflators 150, although anyone of a variety of means of positioning the inflators is permissiblewithout departing from the scope of some aspects of the presentinvention.

As noted previously, the sequencer 100 is preferably configured both toreceive input from the control box 50 and to signal the rocket 104 tolaunch. The sequencer 100 is also configured to signal the inflators 150to generate gas.

More particularly, as will be discussed in greater detail below, theextraction system 34 further preferably includes an mechanical connector166 extending between and interconnecting the rocket 104 and thesequencer 100. The sequencer 100 preferably includes a sequencer box167. Upon sufficient travel of the rocket 104, the mechanical connector166 pulls a tang 169 initially mounted to the sequencer box 167 (e.g.,by screws 169 a but alternatively by other means) away from thesequencer box 167. Such removal activates a switch assembly 171. Thus,in a more specific sense, the mechanical connector 166 extends betweenand interconnects the rocket 104 and the switch assembly 171.

The switch assembly 171 preferably includes a pair of redundant switchcomponents or contacts 173 that are shiftable from an inactive positionto an active position. In the illustrated embodiment, for instance, thecontacts 173 when depressed by the tang 169 are in the inactive positionand when raised upon release by the tang 169 are in the active position.Alternative styles and/or the use of only a single contact or morecontacts are permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention, however.

As will also be discussed in greater detail below, activation of theswitch 172 by removal of the tang 169 results in signals being passedthrough inflation wires 175 a,b,c (housed in a sheath 177) to activatecorresponding ones of the inflators 150 a,b,c and initiate inflation ofthe inflatable cushion 148.

Activation Harness

The mechanical connector 166 is preferably generally continuous in form,although a multi-segmented connector (e.g., chain comprising a pluralityof links) is permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention.

The mechanical connector 166 is preferably at least substantiallyflexible to enable folding and unfolding without significant applicationof force. That is, the mechanical connector 166 preferably comprises aflexible material.

In further detail still, the mechanical connector 166 preferablycomprises a flexible strap and, for purposes of clarity will hereafterbe referred to as the activation harness 166. The activation harness ispreferably generally flat so as to present a generally rectangularlateral cross-section having a greater width than height.

Preferably, the flexible material of the activation harness 166comprises aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®), although other materials may beused without departing from the scope of some aspects of the presentinvention. Significant strength is preferable, however, as are goodthermal performance characteristics.

In a preferred embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 16 and 18, theactivation harness 166 includes an elongated body 168 and a plurality ofappendages extending therefrom. More particularly, the body 168 includesan extendable or incrementally deployable portion 170, an aircraftfixation portion 172, a rocket connection portion 174, a sequencerportion 176, and a parachute release portion 178.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, the deployable portion 170preferably includes a first portion 180 and said second portion 182that, when the activation harness 166 is an a stowed position, are fixedto one another along a cooperatively defined joined length 184 thereof.More particularly, the first and second portions 180 and 182 preferablyoverlie in their entireties each other along the joined length, althoughoffset arrangements are permissible according to some aspects of thepresent invention.

The first portion 180 is preferably continuously formed with theaircraft fixation portion 172. The second portion 182 is preferablycontinuously formed with the rocket connection portion 174.Alternatively phrased, the joined length of the deployable portion 170preferably presents an initiation end 186 and completion end 188opposite the initiation end. The aircraft fixation portion 172 and therocket connection portion 174 each preferably extend from the initiationend.

An integrally formed aircraft fixation fold 190 preferably extends fromthe aircraft fixation portion 172. A grommet 192 is preferably fixedwithin the aircraft fixation fold 190.

An integrally formed rocket connection loop 194 preferably extends fromthe rocket connection portion 174.

The sequencer portion 176 preferably extends from the rocket connectionend 194, in a direction generally opposite that of the aircraft fixationportion 172. A discrete sequencer loop 196 is preferably fixed to thesequencer portion 176.

The parachute release portion 178 is preferably continuously formed withthe sequencer portion 178. Preferably, an integrally formed parachuterelease loop 198 extends from the parachute release portion 178.

The aircraft body 12 preferably includes a bulkhead 200. When installedin the nose bay 96, the activation harness 166 is preferably secured tothe aircraft 10 by means of fixation of the grommet 192 to the bulkhead200 by a fastener 202. The fastener may be of any suitable type known inthe art, including but not limited to screws, bolts, and latches. Theactivation harness 166 might alternatively or additionally be secured byentirely different means, including but not limited to adhesives,retention pins, etc. associated with the bulkhead or instead withanother portion of the aircraft.

The aircraft fixation portion 172 is then preferably routed generallyhorizontally toward the sequencer 100. A platform 204 preferably extendsgenerally horizontally from the bulkhead 200. The deployable portion 170is preferably arranged in a zig-zag or boustrophedonic configuration.The zig-zagged portion 170, as well as a segment 206 of the sequencerportion 176, are secured by a fastener 207 such as a zip-tie and placedon the platform 204.

A remaining segment 208 of the sequencer portion 176 is routedsubstantially vertically along the sequencer 100. The sequencer loop 196preferably encircles a portion of the activation tang 169. (The tang 169is preferably slid into the loop 196 prior to being fixed to thesequencer box 176.)

The parachute release portion 178 is preferably routed substantiallyupwardly from the sequencer box 176, with the parachute release loop 198encircling a portion of a parachute release mechanism 210 that will bediscussed in greater detail below.

Preferably, the rocket connection portion 174 angles generally upwardlyaway from the zig-zagged deployable portion 170 into a boot 212.Preferably, the rocket connection loop 194 encircles a link 214 disposedinside the boot 212. The cable ends 136 a,138 a of the legs 136,138 ofthe sequencer cable 120 are likewise preferably disposed inside the boot212 and fixed to the link 114 (preferably via encirculation, asillustrated). Thus, the activation cable 166 is mechanically linked tothe rocket 104.

More particularly, the boot 212 is preferably shaped in a catenarydome-like manner to present a smaller peak opening 216 and a larger baseopening 218 at opposite ends of an interior 220. The rocket connectionportion 174 and loop 194 extend into the interior 220 via the baseopening 218. In contrast, the cable ends 136 a,138 a enter the interior220 via the peak opening 216.

The boot 212 preferably comprises a thermally protective material whilealso providing physical (i.e., structural) protection to the link 114and associate connections.

Turning again to the deployable portion 170, as noted previously, thefirst portion 180 and said second portion 182 are, when the activationharness 166 is an a stowed position, fixed to one another along thecooperatively defined joined length 184. More particularly, in apreferred embodiment, the first and second portions 180 and 182 arestitched to one another along the joined length by a plurality ofstitches 222 formed by thread 224.

Preferably, as illustrated, four (4) generally longitudinal rows orlines 226, 228, 230, and 232 of stitches 222 are formed. It ispermissible according to some aspects of the present invention, however,for more or fewer lines (including only one line) to be formed.Furthermore, lines might instead extend laterally across the deployableportion, the stitches might be irregularly distributed, and/or thestitches might be in the form of a regular pattern (e.g., a grid).

In a preferred embodiment, the stitches 222 are straight stitches.However, some or all of the stitches might be of alternative types, suchas zig-zag stitches or chain stitches.

The lines 226, 228, 230, and 232 are preferably evenly spaced apart andparallel or at least substantially so. However, uneven spacing andnon-parallelism are permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention.

The lines 226, 228, 230, and 232 preferably extend continuously alongthe entirety of the joined length 184, from the initiation end 186 tothe completion end 188, although a shorter extent and/or internal gapsare permissible according to some aspects of the present invention.

The thread 224 preferably includes four (4) pieces 226 a, 228 a, 230 a,and 232 a, each of which forms the stitches 222 of a corresponding oneof the lines 226, 228, 230, and 232. However, it is permissibleaccording to some aspects of the present invention for more or fewerthreads to be utilized.

The thread pieces 226 a, 228 a, 230 a, and 232 a are preferably each ofconsistent weight along the lengths thereof. Furthermore, the threadpieces 226 a, 228 a, 230 a, and 232 a are preferably equal to each otherin thread weight. Variations between thread pieces and/or along thelengths thereof are permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention, however.

As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art and as will bediscussed in greater detail below, separation of the first and secondportions 180 and 182 from one another along the joined length 184requires severance of the stitches 222 at a shiftable tear-out progresspoint 223. Thus, the stitches 222 provide a resistive force againstseparation of the first and second portions 180 and 182.

Although joining of the first and second portion 180 and 182 by means ofstitching 222 is preferred, it is noted that alternatively means offixing the portions to one another may additionally or alternatively beprovided. For instance, adhesives or glues, interweaving, fasteners,ties, tacks, overmolding, etc. might be used without departing from thescope of some aspects of the present invention.

Furthermore, as will also be discussed in greater detail below, it isnoted that the completion end 188 is a cut end (i.e, as opposed to alooped end). Thus, upon the tearing or severance of all of the stitches222, the first and second portion 180 and 182 will be completelyseparated from one another. More broadly, the first portion 180 and theaircraft fixation portion 170 will be entirely separated from the secondportion 182, the rocket connection portion 174, the sequencer portion176, and the parachute release portion 178 when the first and secondportions 180 and 182 are unjoined.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and second portions 180 and 182(i.e., the joined length) are each between about thirty (30) inches andabout sixty (60) inches long. More preferably, the first and secondportions 180 and 182 are each between about forty (40) inches and aboutfifty (50) inches long. Most preferably, the first and second portionsare about forty-six (46) inches long.

The activation harness 166 preferably presents a generally transversewidth perpendicular to the length thereof. The width is preferablybetween about five tenths (0.5) inches and two (2) inches. The width ismore preferably between about seventy-five hundredths (0.75) inches andabout one and five tenths (1.5) inches. The width is most preferablyabout one (1) inch.

Variations in dimension are permissible according to some aspects of thepresent invention, however, with appropriate dimensions being dependenton the particular application.

It is particularly noted that, although the mechanical connector 166 asdescribed herein in preferably a strap-type fabric harness, otherconfigurations fall within the scope of the present invention. Part ofall of the connector might be in the form of a cable, chain, linkage,spring element, thong, band, belt, string, sash, girdle, cord, rope,tether, strand, lace, braiding, twine, ribbon, tape, tie, leash,ligature, etc.

Furthermore, as will be discussed in greater detail below, among otherthings, the activation harness 166 preferably assists in the control ofthe rocket 104 after launch thereof.

Load Plate

In a preferred embodiment, the extraction system 34 further includes aload plate 234 disposed between the cushion 148 and the parachuteassembly 38.

The load plate 234 preferably includes a laterally extending base 236and a circumferentially extending lip 238 extending generally upwardlyfrom the base 236. The base 236 and the lip 238 thereby cooperativelydefine a well 240.

Preferably, the base 236 is in the shape of a trapezoid, although othershapes are permissible without departing from the scope of some aspectsof the present invention.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, the load plate 234 isconfigured to aid in relative positioning of the cushion 148 and theparachute assembly 38; provide a protective mechanical, chemical, andthermal barrier between the cushion 148 and the parachute assembly 38,and provide early directional guidance to the parachute assembly 38 asthe cushion 148 begins to inflate.

The load plate 234 preferably comprises carbon fiber, although othermaterials may be used without departing from the scope of some aspectsof the present invention. Such materials should possess particularlyhigh heat-resistant properties, however.

In a preferred embodiment, the cushion 148 is fixed to the load plate234 by means of ties 242, although other securement means (e.g.,adhesives, clips, buckles, etc.) may be used.

Parachute System: Parachute Assembly

As noted previously, the parachute system 30 preferably includes anactivation system 32, an extraction system 34, a harness system 36, anda parachute assembly 38.

The parachute assembly 38 preferably broadly includes a canopy 244, aplurality of suspension lines 246 fixed to the canopy, a riser 248 fixedto the suspension lines 246, and a deployment bag 250 at leastsubstantially containing the canopy 244, the suspension lines 246, andthe riser 248 prior to deployment of the parachute assembly 38.

Most preferably, the parachute assembly 38 further includes a slider 250for controlling the rate of inflation or expansion of the canopy 244after deployment.

Canopy

As shown in FIG. 37, the canopy 244 when fully inflated is preferably around, dome-like canopy presenting a radial edge 244 a and an apex 244b. The radial edge 244 a preferably presents a diameter between aboutfifty (50) feet and about one hundred thirty (130) feet. The diameter ismore preferably between about seventy (70) feet and about one hundredten (110) feet. The diameter is most preferably about eighty-seven andfive tenths (87.5) feet.

When the canopy 244 is fully open, the suspension lines 246 preferablyextend from respective connection points at a radially outer margin ofthe canopy 244 to a common junction 252 spaced axially from the canopy244. Furthermore, the riser 248 preferably presents a proximal end 254(nearer to the aircraft 10 after parachute assembly 38 deployment iscomplete) and a distal end 256 (farther from the aircraft 10 and nearerto the canopy 244 after parachute assembly 38 deployment is complete).The distal end 256 is preferably secured to the suspension lines 246 andthe junction 252 by any appropriate means known in the art.

Preferably, the fully open canopy 244 presents a length, measured fromthe junction 252 to the apex 244 b of between about one hundred (100)feet and about one hundred sixty (160) feet. More preferably, the lengthis between about one hundred fifteen (115) feet and about one hundredforty-five (145) feet. Most preferably, the length is about one hundredthirty (130) feet.

The canopy 244 is preferably non-steerable, although canopies withsteering capabilities are not precluded from the scope of the presentinvention.

The canopy 244 preferably comprises and eighty (80) gore fabric,although other gores and/or material types are permissible according tosome aspects of the present invention.

Deployment Bag

The deployment bag 250, as noted previously, at least substantiallycontains the canopy 244, the suspension lines 246, and the riser 248prior to deployment of the parachute assembly 38. The deployment bag 250also preferably functions to pay out the canopy 244, the suspensionlines 246, and the riser 248 during the deployment process, as will bediscussed in greater detail below.

The deployment bag 250 is preferably generally wedge-shaped in form,although other geometries are permissible according to some aspects ofthe present invention. Preferably, however, the shape of the bag 250corresponds with that of the load plate 234. That is, the deployment bag250 is preferably sized and shaped to fit securely into the well 240,with the lip 238 both circumscribing and engaging the deployment bag 250(and thus also circumscribing the packet canopy 244). Any shifting ofthe deployment bag 250 (e.g., during the deployment process, as will bedescribed below), will preferably result in directional guidance beingprovided to the bag by means of the lip 238, which effectively acts as abumper or barricade preventing lateral shifting.

In a preferred embodiment, the deployment bag 250 includes a main body258 and a plurality of straps 260 fixed to and extending from the mainbody 258. Preferably, the straps 260 connect to the rocket bridle 147which, in turn, is fixed to the rocket 104. Thus, the rocket 104 and thedeployment bag 250 are interconnected.

Parachute System: Harness System

In a broad sense, as previously discussed, the parachute system 30preferably includes an activation system 32, an extraction system 34, aharness system 36, and a parachute assembly 38. The harness system 36preferably includes the aforementioned rocket bridle 147, a fore orfront harness 262, pilot and copilot aft or rear harnesses 264 and 266,and a snub line mechanism 268.

Rocket Bridle

In a preferred embodiment, the rocket bridle 147 is at leastsubstantially flexible to enable folding and unfolding withoutsignificant application of force. That is, the rocket bridle 147preferably comprises a flexible material.

In further detail still, the rocket bridle 147 preferably comprises aflexible strap. The rocket bridle 147 is preferably generally flat so asto present a generally rectangular lateral cross-section having agreater width than height.

Preferably, the flexible material of the rocket bridle 147 comprisesaramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®), although other materials may be usedwithout departing from the scope of some aspects of the presentinvention. Significant strength is preferable, however, as are goodthermal performance characteristics.

In a preferred embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 27, the rocket bridle147 includes an elongated body 270 and a plurality of appendagesextending therefrom. More particularly, the body 270 includes anextendable or incrementally deployable portion 272, a projectile portion274, and a parachute portion 276.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, the deployable portion 272preferably includes a first portion 278 and a second portion 280 that,when the rocket bridle 147 is in a stowed position, are fixed to oneanother along a cooperatively defined joined length 282 thereof. Moreparticularly, the first and second portions 278 and 280 preferablyoverlie each other in their entireties along the joined length, althoughoffset arrangements are permissible according to some aspects of thepresent invention.

In greater detail still, in a preferred embodiment, the first and secondportions 278 and 280 are stitched to one another along the joined length282 by a plurality of stitches 284 formed by thread 286.

As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art and as will bediscussed in greater detail below, separation of the first and secondportions 278 and 280 from one another along the joined length 282therefore requires severance of the stitches 284 at a shiftable tear-outprocess point 285. Thus, the stitches 284 provide a resistive forceagainst separation of the first and second portions 278 and 280.Alternatively stated, a force must be applied to the rocket bridle 147to separate the first and second portions 278 and 280 from one anotheralong the joined length 282.

In a preferred embodiment, the rocket bridle 147 is configured such thatseparation of the first and second portions 278 and 280 from one anotheralong the joined length 282 provides increasing resistive forces againsttravel of the rocket 104 or, alternatively stated, requires increasinglevels of force to be applied to the bridle 147 for separation to occuralong the length 282.

More particularly, the joined portion or length 282 preferably includesan initiation segment 286, an intermediate segment 288, and a completionsegment 290. The intermediate segment 288 preferably extends between andinterconnects the initiation and completion segments 286 and 290,respectively. Preferably, a first force is necessary to effectseparation along the initiation segment 286, a second force is necessaryto effect separation along the intermediate segment 288, and third forceis necessary to effect separation along the completion segment 290. Thethird force is preferably greater than the second force, which ispreferably greater than the first force.

In a preferred embodiment, the initiation segment 286 is longer than theintermediate segment 288 and the completion segment 290, althoughalternative relative dimensioning is permissible according to someaspects of the present invention.

Preferably, the stitches 284 are grouped into sets 292,294,296corresponding to the segments 286,288,290. More particularly, thestitches 284 of set 292 preferably form a first plurality of generallylongitudinal rows or lines 298 a-d through the initiation segment 286.The stitches 284 of set 294 preferably form a second plurality ofgenerally longitudinal rows or lines 300 a-f through the intermediatesegment 288. The stitches 284 of set 296 preferably form a thirdplurality of generally longitudinal rows or lines 302 a-h through thecompletion segment 290. Thus, four (4) lines 298 of stitches 284 arepreferably formed through the initiation segment 286; six (6) lines 300of stitches 284 are preferably formed through the intermediate segment288; and eight (8) lines 302 of stitches 284 are preferably formedthrough the completion segment 290.

The provision of an increasing number of lines from segment 286 tosegment 288 and from segment 288 to segment 290 preferably results inincreasingly secure fixation of the first and second portions 278 and280 along the length 282 thereof. Thus, as noted above and as will bedescribed in greater detail below, separation of the first and secondportions 278 and 280 from one another along the joined length 282provides increasing resistive forces against travel of the rocket 104.

In a preferred embodiment, the stitches 284 are zig-zag stitches.However, some or all of the stitches might be of alternative types, suchas straight stitches or chain stitches.

The lines 298 a-d, the lines 300 a-f, and the lines 302 a-h arepreferably evenly spaced apart and parallel or at least substantiallyso. However, uneven spacing and non-parallelism are permissibleaccording to some aspects of the present invention.

The lines 298 a-d, the lines 300 a-f, and the lines 302 a-h eachpreferably extend continuously along the entirety of the correspondingsegment 286, 288, or 290, respectively, although shorter extents and/orinternal gaps are permissible according to some aspects of the presentinvention.

In the illustrated embodiment, the stitches 284 are formed of thread 291including fourteen (14) pieces 291 a-n, with the piece 291 a and thepiece 291 d forming stitches 284 along the entire joined length 282. Itis permissible for more or fewer threads, including only a singlethread, to be provided, however.

The pieces 291 a-n preferably are each of consistent weight along thelengths thereof. Furthermore, the thread pieces 291 a-n are preferablyequal to each other in thread weight. Variations between thread piecesand/or along the lengths thereof are permissible according to someaspects of the present invention, however.

Although generally parallel, longitudinal lines are preferred, linesmight instead extend laterally across the joined length, the stitchesmight be irregularly distributed, and/or the stitches might be in theform of a regular pattern (e.g., a grid).

As discussed for the activation harness 166 above, it is noted thatalternative or additional means may also be provided to secure the firstand second portions 278 and 280 along the joined length.

Furthermore, as will also be discussed in greater detail below, it isnoted that opposite initiation and completion ends 226 and 228 can bedefined along the joined length 282. The completion end 228 ispreferably a looped or folded (i.e., continuous, non-cut) end, such thatupon the tearing or severance of all of the stitches 284, the first andsecond portions 278 and 280 will simply extend continuously with oneanother rather than being severed entirely from one another.

Thus, it is noted that the body 270 is extendable to a maximum extensionthat is approximately twice its original state. Furthermore, based onthe presence and location of the stitches 284, the body 270 begins toresist travel of the projectile object or rocket 104 in the deploymentdirection when extension of the body 270 is less than twenty (20)percent of its maximum extension and, more preferably, when extension ofthe body 270 is less than five (5) percent of its maximum extension.Most preferably, resistance to travel of the projectile object or rocket104 commences substantially simultaneously with extension of the body270.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and second portions 278 and 280(i.e., the joined length) are each between about ten (10) inches andabout fifty (50) inches long. More preferably, the first and secondportions 278 and 280 are each between about twenty (20) inches and aboutforty (40) inches long. Most preferably, the first and second portionsare about thirty (30) inches long.

The rocket bridle 147 preferably presents a generally transverse widthperpendicular to the length thereof. The width is preferably betweenabout one (1) inch and about three (3) inches. The width is morepreferably between about one and five tenths (1.5) inches and about twoand five tenths (2.5) inches. The width is most preferably about two (2)inches.

Variations in dimension are permissible according to some aspects of thepresent invention, however, with appropriate dimensions being dependenton the particular application.

As noted previously, the bridle 147 preferably interconnects theprojectile object or rocket 104 and the parachute assembly 38. Moreparticularly, the bridle 147 preferably includes a projectile end 304and a parachute end 306. Both ends 304 and 306 are preferably initiallydisposed adjacent the initiation segment 286.

As best shown in FIG. 16, the projectile end 304 is preferably loopedaround the link 214 disposed inside the boot 212, so as to consequentlybe connected to the rocket 104 via the legs 136,138 of the sequencercable 120. Thus, after launch of the rocket 104 and as discussed ingreater detail below, separation of the stitches 284 applies a resistiveforce to the rocket 104.

It is noted that the bridle 147 is also likewise linked to theactivation cable 166 via the link 214.

As best shown in FIG. 9, the parachute end 306 is preferably secured tothe deployment bag straps 260 by means of a link 308. Alternative linkmechanisms may be provided, however. Thus, the rocket 104 is connectedto the parachute assembly 38 by means of the rocket bridle 147.

Although connection of the bridle 147 to the parachute assembly 38 (and,more particularly, the deployment bag straps 260) is preferred, it isnoted that, according to some aspects of the present invention, thebridle might be alternatively fixed at its proximal end. For instance,in an alternative embodiment, the bridle might include an aircraft endrather than a parachute end, with the aircraft end being secured to theaircraft body. Launch and subsequent travel of the rocket would stillresult in separation of the stitches and application of a resistiveforce to the rocket, as discussed briefly above.

In a preferred embodiment, a sheath 310 is provided about the rocketbridle 147. In the illustrated embodiment, the sheath 310 extends alongthe entirety of the rocket bridle 147 and also along a portion of thedeployment bag straps 260. Greater or lesser extents are permissibleaccording to some aspects of the present invention, however.

The sheath 310 preferably provides both mechanical or physicalprotection and thermal protection to the bridle 147.

The sheath 310 preferably comprises a flexible material and morepreferably comprises a fabric material. The fabric is preferably aheat-resistant fabric and, more preferably, comprises aramid fibers.Most preferably, the fabric is Kevlar®, although one or more alternativeor additional fabrics may be used without departing from the scope ofsome aspects of the present invention.

It is particularly noted that a flexible material of a non-fabric typemight also be used without departing from the scope of some aspects ofthe present invention.

It is particularly noted that, although the bridle 147 as describedherein is preferably a strap-type fabric harness, other configurationsfall within the scope of the present invention. Part of all of theconnector might be in the form of a cable, chain, linkage, springelement, thong, band, belt, string, sash, girdle, cord, rope, tether,strand, lace, braiding, twine, ribbon, tape, tie, leash, ligature, etc.

Front and Rear Harnesses

The front harness 262 and the rear harnesses 264 and 266 preferably actto interconnect the parachute assembly 38 to the aircraft body 12. Whenthe parachute assembly 38 has been deployed and the canopy 244 is open,the interconnection is such that the harnesses 262,264,266 suspend orsupport the aircraft body 12 from the canopy 244.

The front and rear harnesses 262,264,266 may largely be configured inkeeping with common knowledge in the art, although certain preferredfeatures are described herein.

For instance, as best shown in FIG. 12, in a preferred embodiment, theharnesses 262,264,266 are in part stowed in pilot and copilot stow bags312 and 314, respectively. (Routing of the harnesses 262,264,266 thereinis shown only schematically in the figures.) More particularly, in apreferred embodiment, the front harness 262 includes a first portion 262a and a second portion 262 b. The pilot rear harness 264 includes afirst portion 264 a and a second portion 264 b. The copilot rear harness266 includes a first portion 266 a and a second portion 266 b. The firstportion 262 a of the front harness 262 and the first portion 266 a ofthe copilot rear harness 266 are preferably substantially stowed in thecopilot stow bag 314. The second portion 262 b of the front harness 262and the first portion 264 a of the pilot rear harness 264 are preferablysubstantially stowed in the pilot stow bag 312.

Remaining portions of the rear harnesses 264,266 (i.e., the secondportions 264 b,266 b) are preferably routed along the aircraft body 12as illustrated. More particularly, the second portions 264 b,266 bpreferably included respective nose portions 316,318; belly portions320,322; and wing/body portions 324,326. Furthermore, the aircraft 10preferably includes a nose fairing 328, a belly fairing 330, and awing/body fairing 332. The nose portions 316,318 are preferably routedunder the nose fairing 328; the belly portions 320,322 are preferablyrouted under the belly fairing 330; and the wing/body portions 324,326are preferably routed under the wing/body fairing 332.

The front harness 262 preferably presents a proximal or aircraft end 334and a distal or parachute end 336. The pilot rear harness 264 preferablypresents a proximal or aircraft end 338 and a distal or parachute end340. The copilot rear harness 266 preferably presents a proximal oraircraft end (not shown) and a distal or parachute end 344.

The front harness aircraft end 334 is preferably fixed to a bracket orloop 346 secured to the aircraft body 12. The front harness parachuteend is preferably fixed to the snub line mechanism 268, as will bediscussed in greater detail below.

The rear harness aircraft ends 338 and 342 are preferably fixed torespective brackets 348 (one shown) secured to the aircraft body 12. Therear harness parachute ends 340 and 344 are preferably fixed to the snubline mechanism 268, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

In a preferred embodiment, the front harness 262 includes anincrementally deployable portion 350 similar in nature to the deployableportion 170 discussed above with respect to the activation harness 166and the deployable portion 272 discussed above with respect to therocket bridle 147. It is noted that, with certain exceptions to bediscussed in detail below, many of the concepts and details associatedwith the deployable portion 350 are the same as or very similar to thosedescribed in detail above in relation to the deployable portions 170 and272. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundantdescriptions will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified,the detailed descriptions presented above with respect to the deployableportions 170 and 272 should therefore be understood to apply at leastgenerally to the deployable portion 350 as well.

With particular regard to the deployable portion 350 of the frontharness 262, however, it is noted that the portion 350 comprises atleast substantially the entirety of the second portion 262 b of thefront harness 262. Preferably, two (2) lines 352 of stitches 354 areformed therethrough, such that deployment of the second portion 262 bgenerates a resistive force (or, alternatively stated, requires anapplication of force to tear or sever the stitches 354 at a shiftabletear-out progress point 355). Such a configuration is useful to preventdumping and excessive slack during deployment.

Preferably, the deployable portion 350 presents a commencement end 356adjacent the bracket 346 and a termination end (not shown) inside thepilot stow bag 312. Similar to that of the rocket bridle 147, thetermination end is preferably looped or folded such that completion ofthe tear-out process simply results in continuous extension of thesecond portion 262 b.

Snub Line Mechanism

The snub line mechanism 268 is preferably initially disposed in a pocketof the deployment bag 250.

As best shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the snub line mechanism 268 preferablyincludes a fore four-point link attachment 358 and an aft three-pointlink attachment 360. The four-point link attachment 358 preferablyincludes four (4) pins 358 a-d. The three-point link attachment 360preferably includes three (3) pins 360 a-c. The pins 358 a-d arepreferably bookended by plates 362. The pins 360 a-c are preferablybookended by plates 364.

A snub line 366 preferably extends between the pins 358 a and 360 a. Thesnub line 366 is preferably wound within an interior 368 of the snubline mechanism 268 in an appropriate manner, with such windings beingillustrated only schematically herein.

The front harness parachute end 336 is preferably a split end includingloops 336 a and 336 b. Loops 336 a and 336 b are preferably secured topins 358 b and 358 c, respectively, of the four-point link attachment360. The proximal end 254 of the riser 248 is preferably secured to pin358 d.

The pilot and copilot rear harness parachute ends 340 and 344 arepreferably secured to pins 360 b and 360 c, respectively, of thethree-point link attachment 360.

Thus, the aircraft body 12 is linked to the canopy 244 by means of thesuspension lines 246, the riser 248, the snub line mechanism 268, andthe harnesses 262,264,266.

The snub line mechanism 268 preferably includes a release mechanism 370.The release mechanism 370 is preferably electrically interconnected withthe sequencer 100 by means of a snub line signal line 372.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, activation of the releasemechanism 370 upon receipt of a signal through the signal line 372ultimately results in deployment of the snub line 366. Moreparticularly, the release mechanism 370 preferably includes a lockingassembly 374 including a pair of pins 376, a pair of brackets 378, andan explosive squib in a housing 380. The snub line 366 is looped abouteach of the pins 376 to prevent deployment (i.e. unwinding). The squibpreferably disengages the locking assembly 374 by explosively shiftingthe housing 380 and, in turn, outwardly shifting the brackets 378 andpins 376, which enables the snub line 366 to slide off of the pins 376and expand until it is held taut by the pins 358 a and 360 a of the lineattachments 358 and 360.

Operation of the Parachute System

As described in detail above, operation of the parachute system 30preferably commences in response to an intentional or purposeful inputsuch as the pulling of the activation handle 40 (or, in an unmannedaircraft, detection of a predetermined abnormality, etc.). Initialstages of operation are then preferably controlled by the deploymentmanagement system 46, which, under certain conditions elucidated above,sends a deployment signal to the extraction system 34.

In greater detail, upon receipt of the deployment signal from thecontrol box 50 via the ignition wires 128, the signal receiver 112 ofthe rocket assembly 102 prompts the ignition assembly 126 to active therocket motor 124. The body 122 and motor 124 of the rocket 104 thendepart in a deployment direction from a stowed or launch position andare guided by the launch tube 110. Such departure occurs at a rocketlaunch time.

With reference to FIG. 28, the rocket 104 preferably impacts the cover98 of the nose bay 96, forcibly removing it from the remainder of theaircraft body 12.

As the rocket 104 travels at least substantially in the deploymentdirection (as noted above, trajectory aberrations are likely), it breaksaway a portion 112 a of the signal receiver 112 and picks up the pick-upcollar 118. More particularly, the fixed pick-up collar 118 initiallyslides down (in a relative sense) the upwardly moving rocket body 122before being captured by the flange 140 near the trail end 122 b of therocket body 122.

As the rocket 104 continues its trajectory generally away from theaircraft body 12, the sequencer cable legs 136 and 138, which are routedthrough the brackets 134 of the pick-up collar 118, begin to uncoil fromtheir stowed positions in the stowage bag 141. When the cable legs 136and 138 have been pulled taut, they engage the activation harness 166and the rocket bridle 147 via the interconnecting link 214 disposed inthe protective boot 212.

More particularly, the parachute end 306 of the rocket bridle 147, alongwith the sheath 310 protecting the rocket bridle 147, begin to be liftedby the rocket 104 generally in the deployment direction. Similarly, therocket connection loop 194 and, in turn, the rocket connection portion174 of the activation harness 166, via the connection of the loop 194 tothe link 214, begin to be lifted by the rocket 104 generally in thedeployment direction.

The sequencer portion 176 is subsequently forcefully engaged so as tobreak the fastener (e.g., zip-tie) 206 and begin paying out. Similarly,the deployable portion 170, though not yet tearing out, begins to payout. The aircraft fixation portion 172 preferably retains some slack.

With reference to FIG. 29, as the rocket 104 continues its travel, itreaches an activation position in which the sequencer portion 176becomes taut and tears the activation tang 169 away from the sequencerbox 167 to activate the switch assembly 171 via shifting (e.g., poppingout) of the now-uncovered redundant contacts 173. The sequencer 100, dueto the now-active switch assembly 171, then sends a signal through theinflation wire 175 a to activate the first inflator 150 a and initiateinflation of the inflatable cushion 148 at an inflation start time. Thisstate is shown in an exaggerated state (e.g., with the tang 169 shifteda visible distance from the sequencer box for purposes of clarity) inFIG. 29.

It is noted that such an arrangement ensures by mechanical means thatthe rocket 104 is a sufficient clearance distance from the still-stowedparachute assembly 38 before the cushion 148 ejects or, most preferably,even begins to eject, the parachute assembly 38 from the nose bay 96.This protects against interference between the outgoing rocket 104 andthe likewise outgoing parachute assembly 38. For instance, in apreferred embodiment, the rocket 104 is spaced at least three (3) feetfrom its initial launch or stowage position and at least three (3) feetfrom the stowed position of the parachute assembly 38 when it reachesthe activation position. Most preferably, the rocket 104 is spaced atleast five (5) feet from its initial launch or stowage position and atleast five (5) feet from the stowed position of the parachute assembly38 when it reaches the activation position. Such preferred distance willvary according to the particular application, however, as will bereadily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

It is also noted that such an arrangement ensures that the rocket 104always leads (and, eventually, pulls) the parachute assembly 38.

With reference to FIG. 30, as the cushion 148 beings to inflate, travelof the rocket 104 continues, with the parachute release portion 178coming taut and the parachute release loop 198 engaging the parachuterelease mechanism 210 mentioned briefly above. The parachute releasemechanism 210 is preferably initially fixed to the deployment bag 250 insuch a manner as to secure a retaining strap 251 that preventsinadvertent payout of various components of the parachute assembly 38(e.g., the riser 248, the suspension 246, and the canopy 244), as wellas full deployment of the rocket bridle 147. Engagement of the releasemechanism 210 releases the retaining strap 251 so that controlled payoutcan proceed as discussed below.

Also as the cushion 148 begins to inflate, the deployable portion 170 ofthe activation harness 166 begins to incrementally deploy. Moreparticularly, the aircraft fixation portion 172 comes taut, so that theaircraft fixation portion 172 and the rocket connection portion 174provide substantially opposite forces at the initiation end 186 of thedeployable portion 170. Such opposed forces pull the first and secondportions 180 and 182 away from each other, resulting in tear-out ofinitial ones of the stitches 222 at the tear-out progress point 223.

With reference to FIG. 31, continued travel of the rocket 104 results incontinued tear-out of the stitches 222 at the (shifting) progress point223. Thus, as the rocket 104 moves away from the aircraft body 12, thejoined length 184 shrinks, while the aircraft fixation portion 172 andthe rocket connection portion 174 each become progressively longer (byincorporating portions of the first and second portions 180 and 182,respectively, that are no longer joined to one another).

Resistive forces against travel of the rocket 104 as provided by thetear-out of the stitches 222 is desirable to provide increased controlover the rocket trajectory. That is, as will be readily understood bythose in the art, rocket flight “noise” or irregularity (i.e.,unpredictability) is greatly reduced when at least a small load isprovided in opposition to the rocket's path.

With reference to FIG. 32, about eighteen (18) milliseconds after theinflation start time, the sequencer 100 signals the second inflator 150b via the inflation wire 175 b to become active and continue inflationof the inflatable cushion 148.

Continued travel of the rocket 104 has preferably resulted in theparachute end 306 of the rocket bridle 147 beginning to pull the straps260 of the deployment bag 250. However, incremental tear-out of thedeployable portion 272 of the bridle 147 preferably has not yet begun.

With reference to FIG. 33, about thirty (30) milliseconds after theinflation start time, the sequencer 100 signals the third inflator 150 cvia the third inflation wire 175 c to become active and complete theinflation of the inflatable cushion 148. The activation harness 166completes its tear-out process (i.e., the first and second portions 180and 182 separate completely at the completion end 188), therebyreleasing the rocket 104 from the aircraft body 12, to which it had beenattached by the grommet 192. The parachute assembly 38, subject to thepush provided by the inflating cushion 148 in addition to the pullprovided by the rocket bridle 147, begins to lift away from the loadplate 234. The rocket bridle 147 begins its tear-out process, wherebythe stitches 284 are severed at the tear-out point 285 to enable gradualseparation of the first and second portions 278 and 280 from oneanother.

It is noted that, similar to the activation harness 166, the rocketbridle 147 thus provides resistive forces against travel of the rocket104 and, in turn, increased control over the rocket trajectory.

It is also noted that relatively low-shock transfer of the loadassociated with the parachute assembly 38 from the cushion 148 to therocket 104 is facilitated by the deployable portion 272 of the rocketbridle 147. More particularly, the progressive resistance provided bythe initiation, intermediate, and completion segments 286,288,290, asdiscussed in detail above, assists in gradual transfer of the loadingfrom the cushion 148 to the rocket 104 (the cushion 148 initially bearsthe entire load of the parachute assembly 38, while the rocket 104 takesover the entire load shortly after inflation of the cushion 148 iscomplete) and, more broadly, reduces the shock associated with such atransfer.

It is also noted that, as the cushion 148 is inflating, the stitching160 is tearing out of the overlaid portions 156. Furthermore, as will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, as a result of inflationof the cushion 148, the load plate 148 and the parachute assembly 38 arebeing shifted (i.e., lifted) by the cushion 148 from initial stowedpositions. Still further, the rocket 104 is continuing its travel awayfrom the aircraft body 104.

Preferably, provision of the three (3) inflators 150 a-c rather than asingle inflator results in reduced loads being transferred to theaircraft body 12. Furthermore, use of the three (3) inflators 150 a-cpreferably increases the force with which the parachute assembly 38 isejected from the nose bay 96 by the cushion 148.

With regard to the latter point, it is noted that the parachute assembly38 is preferably ejected fully out of the nose bay 96 by means of thecushion 148, decreasing the likelihood of detrimental interference withthe aircraft body 12 occurring during the remainder of the extractionprocess. Such ejection process to clear the nose bay 96 preferablyoccurs in less than about one hundred (100) milliseconds, morepreferably in less than about seventy-five (75) ms, and most preferablyin about fifty (50) milliseconds.

With reference to FIG. 34, as the rocket 104 continues its travel withthe parachute assembly 38 in tow, the deployment bag 250 preferablyrotates such that the side thereof to which the snub line mechanism 268is mounted faces generally downward (i.e., generally opposite thedeployment direction). The first portion 262 a of the front harness 262begins paying out from the copilot stow bag 314, and the first portions264 a and 266 a of the rear harnesses 264 and 266, respectively, beginpaying out of the pilot and copilot stow bags 312 and 314, respectively.

With reference to FIG. 35, when payout of the first portions 262 a,264a,266 a is complete, the rocket 104 reaches a line stretch position andpreferably removes the deployment bag 250 from the remainder of theparachute assembly 38, releasing the pressure-packed canopy 244, alongwith the riser 248 and the suspension 246. The snub line mechanism 268,still in its initial compact form, also falls away from the deploymentbag 250.

At this time, it is preferred that between one (1) and three (3) secondshave elapsed since launch time. Most preferably, about one andsixty-five hundredths (1.65) seconds have elapsed since launch time.

With reference to FIG. 36, as the environment (e.g, air) begins toinflate the canopy 244, the force applied to the canopy 244 by theenvironment results in payout of the second stages 262 b,264 b,266 b, ofthe harnesses 262,264,266. More particularly, the rear harnesses 264 and266 progressively slide or tear out of the nose fairing 328 and thebelly fairing 330, then peel back the wing/body fairing 332. The frontharness 262 progressively tears out the stitches 354 of the deployableportion 350 at the progressively shifting progress point 355.

Full inflation of the canopy 244 preferably occurs within about fifteen(15) seconds of launch time and most preferably occurs within about ten(10) seconds of launch time.

It is preferred that the aircraft 10, having initially been shifted intoa nose up or pitched up position by the deployment management system 46,shifts into a nose down/tail up configuration during the extraction anddeployment of the parachute assembly 38. Such a configuration aids inpreventing backwards tumbling of the aircraft body 12 as it is subjectedto forces associated with initial deployment of the parachute assembly38 in a broad sense and thereafter deployment of the canopy 12.

With reference to FIG. 37, leveling of the aircraft 10 preferably occursbetween about ten (10) seconds and about twenty (20) second after therocket 104 reaches the activation position and removes the tang 169.Most preferably, leveling occurs about fifteen (15) seconds after therocket 104 removes the tang 169, or, more broadly, after the canopy 12is fully open.

More particularly, upon removal of the tang 169, the sequencer 100 sendsa signal via the snub line signal line 372 to the snub line mechanism268. A delay circuit in the snub line mechanism 268 begins a fifteen(15) second delay before the previously described explosive squibdissembles the locking assembly 374. The newly released snub line 366unwinds, providing an additional length (e.g., seven (7) feet in apreferred embodiment) of harness to that already provided by the rearharnesses 264 and 266. Such release thereby enables leveling of theaircraft 10.

The aircraft 10 is thereafter gently lowered to the ground or associatedstructures or bodies thereon, buoyed by the parachute canopy 12.

CONCLUSION

Although the above description presents features of preferredembodiments of the present invention, other preferred embodiments mayalso be created in keeping with the principles of the invention.Furthermore, these other preferred embodiments may in some instances berealized through a combination of features compatible for use togetherdespite having been presented independently as part of separateembodiments in the above description.

The preferred forms of the invention described above are to be used asillustration only and should not be utilized in a limiting sense ininterpreting the scope of the present invention. Obvious modificationsto the exemplary embodiments, as hereinabove set forth, could be readilymade by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit ofthe present invention.

The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on the Doctrine ofEquivalents to determine and access the reasonably fair scope of thepresent invention as pertains to any apparatus not materially departingfrom but outside the literal scope of the invention set forth in thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aircraft comprising: a fuselage defining arecess; a parachute assembly including a canopy shiftable from a firstcanopy position at least substantially within the recess to a secondcanopy position completely outside the recess; an extraction systemincluding an ejector assembly and a projectile object, said ejectorassembly including— an inflatable cushion, and an inflator configured toinflate the inflatable cushion, inflation of said inflatable cushionpushing said canopy away from said recess; and said projectile objectconnected to the parachute assembly and configured to pull the canopyaway from said recess.
 2. The aircraft of claim 1, said projectileobject having a launch position, said aircraft further comprising acontroller configured to launch said projectile object from said launchposition prior to commencement of inflation of the inflatable cushion atan inflation start time.
 3. The aircraft of claim 2, said controllerconfigured to launch said projectile object at a launch time, saidprojectile object configured to thereafter travel to an activationposition, said extraction system configured to prevent the inflationstart time from occurring until the projectile object has reached theactivation position.
 4. The aircraft of claim 3, said extraction systemfurther including— a mechanically activatable sequencer, and amechanical connector extending between and interconnecting theprojectile object and the sequencer such that travel of the projectileobject to the activation position mechanically signals the sequencer tobegin inflation of the inflatable cushion.
 5. The aircraft of claim 1,said ejector assembly including a plurality of said inflators, saidextraction system further including a sequencer, said sequencerconfigured to sequentially engage the inflators so as to incrementallyinflate the inflatable cushion.
 6. The aircraft of claim 5, saidsequencer configured to activate a first one of said inflators at aninflation start time, said sequencer configured to activate a second oneof said inflators about eighteen milliseconds after the inflation starttime, and said sequencer configured to activate a third one of saidinflators about thirty milliseconds after the inflation start time. 7.The aircraft as claimed in claim 5, said projectile object having alaunch position, said aircraft further comprising a controllerconfigured to launch said projectile object from said launch positionprior to commencement of inflation of the inflatable cushion at aninflation start time.
 8. The aircraft as claimed in claim 7, saidprojectile object configured to travel to an activation position afterhaving been launched from said launch position, said inflation starttime occurring after the projectile object reaches the activationposition.
 9. The aircraft of claim 1, said inflatable cushion includinga flexible material and thread, said flexible material , when theinflatable cushion is in a deflated configuration, being folded topresent overlaid portions, said thread, when the inflatable cushion isin the deflated configuration, forming a plurality of stitchesinterconnecting said overlaid portions, such that inflation of theinflatable cushion necessitates unfolding and the tearing of saidstitches.
 10. The aircraft of claim 1, said flexible material comprisinga heat-resistant fabric. said fabric comprising aramid fibers.
 11. Theaircraft of claim 1, said aircraft further comprising a load platedisposed between the inflatable cushion and the canopy, said load platebeing shiftable from a first load plate position at least substantiallywithin the recess to a second load plate position completely outside therecess, said first and second load plate positions corresponding to thefirst and second canopy positions, inflation of said inflatable cushionpushing said load plate away from said recess.
 12. The aircraft of claim11, said load plate including a base and a lip, said base and said lipcooperatively defining a well, said canopy at least in part beingreceived in said well such that said lip at least substantiallycircumscribes the canopy.
 13. The aircraft of claim 12, said projectileobject having a launch position, said aircraft further comprising acontroller configured to launch said projectile object from said launchposition at a launch time, said projectile object configured tothereafter travel to an activation position, said extraction systemconfigured to prevent the inflation start time from occurring until theprojectile object has reached the activation position.
 14. The aircraftof claim 13, said extraction system further including— a mechanicallyactivatable sequencer, and a mechanical connector extending between andinterconnecting the projectile object and the sequencer such that themechanical connector causes activation of the sequencer once theprojectile object has traveled to the activation position.
 15. Theaircraft of claim 14, said ejector assembly including a plurality ofsaid inflators, said sequencer configured to sequentially engage theinflators so as to incrementally inflate the inflatable cushion.
 16. Theaircraft of claim 15, said sequencer configured to activate a first oneof said inflators at the inflation start time, said sequencer configuredto activate a second one of said inflators about eighteen millisecondsafter the inflation start time, and said sequencer configured toactivate a third one of said inflators about thirty milliseconds afterthe inflation start time.
 17. The aircraft of claim 16, said inflatablecushion including a flexible material and thread, said flexiblematerial, when the inflatable cushion is in a deflated configuration,being folded to present overlaid portions, said thread, when theinflatable cushion is in the deflated configuration, forming a pluralityof stitches interconnecting said overlaid portions, such that inflationof the inflatable cushion necessitates unfolding and the tearing of saidstitches.
 18. The aircraft of claim 17, said flexible materialcomprising a heat-resistant fabric.
 19. The aircraft of claim 18, saidfabric comprising aramid fibers.
 20. The aircraft of claim 1, saidprojectile object being configured to pull the canopy to a deploymentposition, said canopy being configured to unfold in the deploymentposition and provide a force in resistance to travel of the aircraft.